Overhead stowage bin assembly for a vehicle

ABSTRACT

A stowage bin assembly is configured to be positioned above at least a portion of one or more seats within a vehicle. The stowage bin assembly may include a pivot bin including a forward end panel, an aft end panel that is opposed to the forward end panel, a front panel extending between the forward and aft end panels, and a closeout bracket secured to the forward end panel, the aft end panel, and the front panel. A baggage retaining chamber is defined between the forward end panel, the aft end panel, and the front panel. The closeout bracket spans between the forward end panel and the aft end panel.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/682,217, entitled “Overhead Stowage Bin Assembly for a Vehicle,”filed Apr. 9, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,738,386, which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to stowage binassemblies within vehicles.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Commercial aircraft typically include an interior cabin that may bedivided into numerous sections. A cockpit is generally separated from apassenger cabin, which may include a first class section, a businessclass section, and a coach section. The passenger cabin may also includeone or more work areas for flight personnel, such as galleys, which mayinclude food and beverage storage structures. One or more aisles passthrough the passenger cabin and connect each of the passenger sectionsto one or more paths to one or more doors of the aircraft.

Overhead stowage bins are typically positioned above rows of seatswithin a commercial aircraft. Each overhead stowage bin is configured tobe moved between an open position and a closed position. In the openposition, passengers may place carry-on luggage within a moveable bin orbucket. Before the aircraft leaves a terminal, flight attendants ensurethat each stowage bin is securely closed.

Due to time constraints, security requirements, and airline policiesregarding checked luggage, many passengers decide to carry baggage andpersonal items onto an aircraft. As such, carry-on baggage has increasedin size and often includes large, rectangular rigid bags. Largercapacity stowage bins have been, and continue to be, employed bycarriers to accommodate the increase in carry-on baggage.

Often, however, there are not enough stowage bins on an aircraft toaccommodate all of the carry-on baggage of a particular flight. Forexample, as passengers board a plane, the total amount of availableoverhead bin space decreases. Passengers who board later may be unableto stow their baggage due to the limited amount of available space.Further, many carry-on bags are simply too large to fit within stowagebins of particular aircraft. For example, smaller aircraft may includesmaller stowage bins that are unable to accommodate carry-on baggagethat exceeds a particular size.

Accordingly, a need exists for a stowage bin that is able to accommodatean increased amount of carry-on baggage. Further, a need exists for astowage bin that is able to accommodate larger carry-on baggage.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a stowage binassembly configured to be positioned above at least a portion of one ormore seats within a vehicle, such as a commercial aircraft. The stowagebin assembly may include a pivot bin including a forward end panel, anaft end panel that is opposed to the forward end panel, a front panelextending between the forward and aft end panels, and a closeout bracketsecured to the forward end panel, the aft end panel, and the frontpanel. A baggage retaining chamber is defined between the forward endpanel, the aft end panel, and the front panel. The closeout bracketspans between the forward end panel and the aft end panel. The stowagebin assembly may also include or otherwise be connected to a strongback.The pivot bin may be pivotally secured to the strongback. The pivot binis configured to be pivoted between open and closed positions. Thecloseout bracket may be secured to a bottom end of the front panel, suchas a bottom portion of a bottom panel connected to, or part of, thefront panel.

The stowage bin assembly may be devoid of an upper panel. In at leastone embodiment, no portion of any panel extends past the closeoutbracket between the forward and aft end panels.

Each of the forward end panel, the aft end panel, and the front panelmay be formed of composite honeycomb sandwich panels. The closeoutbracket may be formed from a unitary piece of metal, such as sheetmetal, aluminum, or the like.

The baggage retaining chamber may be configured to support standardsized roller bags in a vertically-oriented position in open and closedpositions. An interior surface of the front panel is configured tosupport sides of the standard sized roller bags in the open and closedpositions.

A standard sized roller bag may have dimensions of 22″×14″×9″, forexample. A stowage bin assembly according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure may be configured to contain six of such standardsized roller bags in an upright, on-side orientation.

The closeout bracket may include a closeout flange that is configured tobe spaced apart from a strongback through an entire range of motion ofthe pivot bin with respect to the strongback. The closeout flange mayinclude an upturned edge of a longitudinal main body. In at least oneembodiment, the closeout bracket may include a main body having a firstportion connected to a second portion through an intermediate curvedportion. The main body may be configured to cradle lower curved cornerportions of the forward and aft end panels. The closeout bracket mayalso include one or more securing tabs extending perpendicularly fromone or both of the first and second portions. Each of the securingtab(s) may include a through-hole configured to receive a fastener thatsecures the closeout bracket to one or more of the front panel, theforward end panel, or the aft end panel.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method offorming a pivot bin of a stowage bin assembly that is configured to bepositioned above at least a portion of one or more seats within avehicle. The method may include separately forming a forward end panel,an aft end panel, and a front panel, aligning the forward end panel, theaft end panel, and the front panel with respect to a closeout bracket,and securing the forward end panel, the aft end panel, and the frontpanel to the closeout bracket.

The aligning operation may include using the closeout bracket as anassembly jig or other such alignment guide for the forward end panel,the aft end panel, and the front panel. The securing operation mayinclude one or both of adhesively securing the forward end panel, theaft end panel, and the front panel to the closeout bracket or using oneor more fasteners to secure the forward end panel, the aft end panel,and the front panel to the closeout bracket.

The method may also include upturning an edge of the closeout bracket toform a closeout flange.

The method may refrain from securing an upper panel to any of theforward end panel, the aft end panel, and the front panel. The methodmay also refrain from folding any panel portions to form any of theforward end panel, the aft end panel, and the front panel.

The separately forming operation may include forming the front panelwith a different thickness than the forward and aft end panels.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective top view of an aircraft, according toan embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2A illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin of an aircraft,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2B illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin of an aircraft,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective interior view of an internal cabin ofan aircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective front view of a stowage bin assembly ina closed position within an internal cabin, according to an embodimentof the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective front view of a stowage bin assembly inan open position within an internal cabin, according to an embodiment ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a simplified axial cross-sectional view of a stowagebin assembly in an open position within an internal cabin, according toan embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a simplified axial cross-sectional view of a stowagebin assembly in a closed position, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective front view of a stowage bin assembly ina closed position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective front view of a stowage bin assembly inan open position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of a stowage bin assembly in an openposition, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective end view of a closeout bracket securedto a forward end panel, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates an end view of a closeout bracket secured to aforward end panel, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates a flow chart of a method of a forming a stowage binassembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates a simplified top plan view of an internal cabinhaving a plurality of stowage bin assemblies, according to an embodimentof the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description ofcertain embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunctionwith the appended drawings. As used herein, an element or step recitedin the singular and preceded by the word “a” or “an” should beunderstood as not necessarily excluding the plural of the elements orsteps. Further, references to “one embodiment” are not intended to beinterpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments thatalso incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitlystated to the contrary, embodiments “comprising” or “having” an elementor a plurality of elements having a particular property may includeadditional elements not having that property.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a stowage bin assemblythat is configured for use with a vehicle, such as a commercialaircraft. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure may be usedwith a Boeing 737 aircraft. The stowage bin assembly is configured toaccommodate six standard sized roller bags in a vertical orientation(for example, propped up on a side), in a bin having a length of 60″. Ithas been found that embodiments of the present disclosure increaseoverall overhead baggage count within a Boeing 737-800, for example,from 118 bags to 174 bags. The stowage bin assemblies offer passengersand crew more room and flexibility for loading bags, and increases theopportunity for all passengers to be able to find a suitable place fortheir bag within an internal cabin of a vehicle, such as a commercialaircraft. Additionally, the stowage bin assemblies are configured forrelatively low closing force without the need for a complex bin assistmechanism.

A standard sized roller bag may have dimensions of 22″×14″×9″, forexample. A stowage bin assembly according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure may be configured to contain six of such standardsized roller bags in an upright, on-side orientation.

By increasing the amount of baggage that may be stowed in an internalcabin of a vehicle, such as a Boeing 737 aircraft, passenger stresslevel is reduced, as they may rest assured that there will be room inthe overhead stowage bin assemblies for their baggage. Additionally, theincreased space for overhead baggage reduces stress and workload ofstaff at boarding gates, as there will be less need to request thatpassengers check their bags at the gate. Moreover, the increasedoverhead baggage space allows for more efficient boarding, as passengersare able to quickly and easily find space for their bags. In comparisonto known stowage bins, embodiments of the present disclosure providestowage bin assemblies that provide large bin cross sections that areable to accommodate an increased number of bags.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a stowage bin assemblythat may include a closeout bracket, for example. The stowage binassembly may include a forward end panel, an aft end panel, and a curvedfront or face panel. A closeout bracket is used to secure the end panelsto the front panel. For example, a closeout bracket may be attached tothe forward end panel at one end and attached to the aft end panel at anopposite end. The closeout bracket may be a span-wise bracket orconnection joint that extends between the forward and aft end panels.The closeout bracket may include a closeout flange having a length suchthat clearance between a pivot stowbin and a fixed support structure,such as a strongback, is minimized or otherwise reduced. The closeoutbracket may be substantially rectangular with honeycomb sandwich panelsattached to three of the four sides of the bracket (for example, thepivot bin may not include a top panel). A gap defined by a minimumdistance from the flange to the strongback may vary as the pivot binproceeds through a range of motion. The gap may have a maximum distancebetween 0.2″-0.3″, so as to prevent overhead baggage and personal itemsfrom falling therethrough. Alternatively, the gap may have a greater orlesser maximum distance.

Because there is no top to the stowage bin assembly, the assembly may bemanufactured such that large panel pieces may be assembled to tighttolerances, and aligned quickly and properly without having separatepieces hanging together by a face sheet. For example, embodiments of thepresent disclosure provide a method of manufacturing a stowage binassembly that may include aligning three honeycomb composition panelswith a closeout bracket, and attaching the three honeycomb compositepanels to the closeout bracket. The aligning operation may include usingthe closeout bracket as an assembly jig. The attaching operation mayinclude gluing and fastening. At least one of the three composite panelsmay have a different thickness than the other two.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a stowage bin assemblyincluding a pivot bin or bucket having a reduced stiffness. The closeoutbracket may stiffen the pivot bin to prevent unwanted deflection.Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a stowage bin assemblythat is aesthetically pleasing, lightweight, easy to manufacture, andtamper resistant. Compared to other known stowage bin, embodiments ofthe present disclosure provide a reliable stowage bin assembly havingless parts. Further, the stowage bin assembly is less susceptible tojamming, as the pivot bin is easier to close. Embodiments of the presentdisclosure provide a stowage bin assembly that has a greater capacityfor overhead baggage.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured to pivot betweenopen and closed positions, such as shown and described in U.S. Pat. No.8,262,022, entitled “Overhead Stowage Bin Load Transfer and BalanceSystem,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective top view of a vehicle, such as anaircraft 10 (or aircraft assembly), according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure. The aircraft 10 may include a propulsion system 12that may include two turbofan engines 14, for example. Optionally, thepropulsion system 12 may include more engines 14 than shown. The engines14 are carried by wings 16 of the aircraft 10. In other embodiments, theengines 14 may be carried by a fuselage 18 and/or an empennage 20. Theempennage 20 may also support horizontal stabilizers 22 and a verticalstabilizer 24.

The fuselage 18 of the aircraft 10 defines an internal cabin, which mayinclude a cockpit, one or more work sections (for example, galleys,personnel carry-on baggage areas, and the like), one or more passengersections (for example, first class, business class, and coach sections),and an aft section in which an aft rest area assembly may be positioned.Each of the sections may be separated by a cabin transition area, whichmay include one or more class divider assemblies. Overhead stowage binassemblies may be positioned throughout the internal cabin.

Alternatively, instead of an aircraft, embodiments of the presentdisclosure may be used with various other vehicles, such as automobiles,buses, locomotives and train cars, seacraft, spacecraft, and the like.

FIG. 2A illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin 30 of anaircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Theinternal cabin 30 may be within a fuselage 32 of the aircraft. Forexample, one or more fuselage walls may define the internal cabin 30.The internal cabin 30 includes multiple sections, including a frontsection 33, a first class section 34, a business class section 36, afront galley station 38, an expanded economy or coach section 40, astandard economy of coach section 42, and an aft section 44, which mayinclude multiple lavatories and galley stations. It is to be understoodthat the internal cabin 30 may include more or less sections than shown.For example, the internal cabin 30 may not include a first classsection, and may include more or less galley stations than shown. Eachof the sections may be separated by a cabin transition area 46, whichmay include class divider assemblies between aisles 48.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the internal cabin 30 includes two aisles 50 and 52that lead to the aft section 44. Optionally, the internal cabin 30 mayhave less or more aisles than shown. For example, the internal cabin 30may include a single aisle that extends through the center of theinternal cabin 30 that leads to the aft section 44.

FIG. 2B illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin 80 of anaircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Theinternal cabin 80 may be within a fuselage 81 of the aircraft. Forexample, one or more fuselage walls may define the internal cabin 80.The internal cabin 80 includes multiple sections, including a main cabin82 having passenger seats 83, and an aft section 85 behind the maincabin 82. It is to be understood that the internal cabin 80 may includemore or less sections than shown.

The internal cabin 80 may include a single aisle 84 that leads to theaft section 85. The single aisle 84 may extend through the center of theinternal cabin 80 that leads to the aft section 85. For example, thesingle aisle 84 may be coaxially aligned with a central longitudinalplane of the internal cabin 80.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective interior view of an internal cabin 100of an aircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.The internal cabin 100 includes outboard walls 102 connected to aceiling 104. Windows 106 may be formed within the outboard walls 102. Afloor 108 supports rows of seats 110. As shown in FIG. 3, a row 112 mayinclude two seats 110 on either side of an aisle 113. However, the row112 may include more or less seats 110 than shown. Additionally, theinternal cabin 100 may include more aisles than shown.

Passenger service units (PSUs) 114 are secured between an outboard wall102 and the ceiling 104 on either side of the aisle 113. The PSUs 114extend between a front end and rear end of the internal cabin 100. Forexample, a PSU 114 may be positioned over each seat 110 within a row112. Each PSU 114 may include a housing 116 that generally containsvents, reading lights, an oxygen bag drop panel, an attendant requestbutton, and other such controls over each seat 110 (or groups of seats)within a row 112.

Overhead stowage bin assemblies 118 are secured to the ceiling 104and/or the outboard wall 102 above and inboard from the PSU 114 oneither side of the aisle 113. The overhead stowage bin assemblies 118are secured over the seats 110. The overhead stowage bin assemblies 118extend between the front and rear end of the internal cabin 100. Eachstowage bin assembly 118 may include a pivot bin or bucket 120 pivotallysecured to a strongback (hidden from view in FIG. 3). The overheadstowage bin assemblies 118 may be positioned above and inboard fromlower surfaces of the PSUs 114. The overhead stowage bin assemblies 118are configured to be pivoted open in order to receive passenger carry-onbaggage and personal items, for example.

As used herein, the term “outboard” means a position that is furtheraway from a central longitudinal plane 122 of the internal cabin 100 ascompared to another component. The term “inboard” means a position thatis closer to the central longitudinal plane 122 of the internal cabin100 as compared to another component. For example, a lower surface of aPSU 114 may be outboard in relation to a stowage bin assembly 118.

As shown, a gap 124 extends along a length of the internal cabin 100between the PSUs 114 and the stowage bin assemblies 118 on each side ofthe aisle 113. The gap 124 allows the pivot bins 120 of the stowage bins118 to be pivoted between open and closed positions. A closeout panelmay be secured to a strongback and extend into the gap 124, as describedin U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/682,197, filed Apr. 9, 2015,entitled “Systems and Methods for Positioning a Section Divider AssemblyWithin a Vehicle”, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,499,271 which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective front view of a stowage bin assembly118 in a closed position within the internal cabin 100, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure. The stowage bin assembly 118includes a pivot bin 120 having a front panel 126 connected to forwardand aft end panels (hidden from view in FIG. 4). As shown, the frontpanel 126 may be an arcuate panel having a curved outer surface thatcurves downwardly toward the outboard wall 102. As such, a top portion128 of the front panel 126 is inboard in relation to a lower portion130.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective front view of the stowage bin assembly118 in an open position within the internal cabin 100, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the front panel 126 issecured to a forward end panel 132 and an aft end panel 134, which maygenerally be opposed and parallel to one another. The front panel 126and the end panels 132 and 134 may also connect to a bottom panel 136.The bottom panel 136 may be an inwardly curved portion of the frontpanel 126, for example. A closeout bracket 138 may span between the endpanels 132 and 134 and provide a rigid bracing support therebetween. Thefront panel 126 may be thicker than the end panels 132 and 134, as thefront panel 126 is configured to directly support a weight of overheadbags. As such, the front panel 126 may have increased thickness in orderto provide additional support strength and rigidity.

Notably, the pivot bin 120 does not include an upper panel that extendsbetween the end panels 132 and 134. Because there is no upper panel orportion thereof extending between the end panels 132 and 134, an uppervolume of the pivot bin 120 is unobstructed and is therefore able toaccommodate taller bags, such as roller bags, on their sides.

A baggage retaining chamber 140 is defined between the front panel 126,the end panels 132 and 134, and the bottom panel 136. The baggageretaining chamber 140 is configured to receive baggage when the stowagebin assembly 118 is in the open position. The baggage retaining chamber140 is configured to accommodate an increased number of bags 142 ascompared to other known stowage bins. For example, six or morestandard-sized roller bags may be positioned within the baggageretaining chamber 140. Moreover, the baggage retaining chamber 140 isconfigured to accommodate the bags 142 in a vertical, on-edgeorientation, as shown.

FIG. 6 illustrates a simplified axial cross-sectional view of thestowage bin assembly 118 in an open position within the internal cabin100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The pivot bin120 may be pivotally secured to a fixed structure, such as a strongback144, which is secured to the outboard wall 102 and/or the ceiling 104.The PSU 116 may be secured to a lower edge 146 of the strongback 144through a PSU rail 148.

The pivot bin 120 may not include a top panel or wall. Instead, asshown, the front panel 126 connects to the bottom panel 136, which mayconnect to the closeout bracket 138. In the open position, an edge orlip 150 of the front panel 126 is at a level that is a distance d lowerthan a front panel 160 of a previous stowage bin 162. For example, thedistance d may be 3″. As such, passengers may find it easier to loadbags into the baggage retaining chamber 140. The lower level of the lip150 in the open position provides easier loading of baggage easier, andeasier visual inspection by flight attendants.

FIG. 7 illustrates a simplified axial cross-sectional view of thestowage bin assembly 118 in a closed position, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the baggage retainingchamber 140 is large enough to accommodate bags 142 in a verticalorientation in which they are on oriented in an upright position,supported on a side (in contrast to resting on a front or back). Assuch, the stowage bin assembly 118 is able to accommodate an increasednumber of bags 142, as the bags 142 may be positioned on their edges orsides, which allows more room for additional bags to be positionedwithin the baggage retaining chamber 140.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective front view of the stowage bin assembly118 in the closed position, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure. The front panel 126 is secured to the forward end panel 132and the aft end panel 134 (hidden from view in FIG. 8). The end panels132 and 134 may generally be parallel to one another. Each end panel 132may be pivotally secured to a retaining panel 170 of the strong back144.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective front view of the stowage bin assembly118 in the open position, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure. The front panel 126 and the end panels 132 and 134 mayconnect to the bottom panel 136. The closeout bracket 138 may spanbetween the end panels 132 and 134 and provide a rigid bracing supporttherebetween.

For the sake of clarity, a front retaining panel 170 is shown astransparent. Each of the end panels 132 and 134 may include a pivot pin172 extending from an outer surface that is pivotally retained within apivot bearing 174 extending from an internal surface of the retainingpanel 170. Alternatively, the pivot bearing may be positioned on theouter surface of an end panel 132 or 134, while the pivot pin 172extends inwardly from the retaining panel 170. The pivotal engagement ofthe pivot pins 172 within the pivot bearings 174 defines a pivot axle176 about which the pivot bin 120 pivots between open and closedpositions. Pivotal movement of the stowage bin assembly and the locationof the pivot axle 176 may be described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,262,022, forexample.

The closeout bracket 138 secures the forward end panel 132 to the aftend panel 134. The closeout bracket 138 may secure to each of the endpanels 132, 134 and the front panel 126 (the bottom panel 136 may be alower curved portion of the front panel 126). A forward end 180 of thecloseout bracket 138 may attach to the forward end panel 132 and an aftend 182 of the closeout bracket 138 may attached to the aft end panel134. As shown, the closeout bracket 138 secures to the end panels 132and 134 at lower edges 184 and 186. The closeout bracket 138 may extendover edge portions of the end panels 132 and 134 a short distance, suchas less than 3″.

The closeout bracket 138 spans between the forward and aft end panels132 and 134, and may include a closeout flange 190 that extends betweenthe forward and aft end panels 132 and 134. The closeout flange 190 maybe sized and shaped so that a clearance space between the pivot bin 120and the strongback 144 is minimized or otherwise reduced in order toprevent items within a baggage retaining chamber from fallingtherethrough.

The closeout bracket 138 may be substantially rectangular and formed ofsheet metal (such as aluminum), thereby providing bracing rigidity tothe pivot bin 120. Each of the panels 126, 132, and 134 may be formed ofa composite material having a honeycomb structure. A gap defined betweenthe closeout flange 190 and the strongback 144 may vary as the pivot bin120 proceeds through a range of motion. For example, the gap may have amaximum distance between 0.2″-0.3″, to prevent baggage or overhead itemsfrom falling therethrough. That is, the gap between the closeout flange190 and the strongback 144 (throughout a range of motion of the pivotbin 120) may be small enough to prevent baggage, overhead personal items(such as laptop computers), and the like from passing therethrough. Atthe same time, because the closeout flange 190 is separated from thestrongback 144 by the gap, the pivot bin 120 is able to easily movebetween the open and closed positions. In short, the closeout flange 190does not interfere with the strongback 144 as the pivot bin 120 pivotsbetween open and closed positions.

The stowage bin assembly 118 may also include a blade seal 191 securedto a lower portion of the strongback 144. The blade seal 191 may beformed of plastic, composite, metal, or the like, and is configured toprovide a sealing engagement with the closeout bracket 138 when thepivot bin 120 is in the closed position. In this manner, a closedinterface may exist between the blade seal 191 and the closeout bracket138 that ensures that items remain within the pivot bin 120 in theclosed position.

FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of the stowage bin assembly 118 in theopen position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Asshown, the baggage retaining chamber 140 is formed between the endpanels 132, 134, and the front panel 126, which may include the bottompanel 136. The closeout bracket 138 extends and spans between theopposed end panels 132 and 134.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective end view of the closeout bracket 138secured to the forward end panel 132, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure. FIG. 12 illustrates an end view of the closeoutbracket 138 secured to the forward end panel 132. Referring to FIGS. 11and 12, it is to be understood that the closeout bracket 138 may besecured to the aft end panel 134 (not shown in FIGS. 11 and 12) in asimilar fashion. As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the pivot bin 120 is in anopen position with respect to the strongback 144.

The closeout bracket 138 includes a longitudinal main body 192 thatspans between the end panels 132 and 134. The main body 192 includes afirst portion, such as a ledge 194 that connects to the bottom panel 136and overlays bottom edge portions 196 of the end panels 132 and 134. Thefirst portion 194 connects to a second portion, such as an upper rail198 through a curved intermediate transition portion 200 that conformsto an outer edge portion of a portion of the end panels 132 and 134. Thesecond portion 198 overlays lower upstanding edge portions 201 of theend panels 132 and 134. As such, distal, lower curved corner portions ofthe end panels 132 and 134 are cradled within the main body 192 of thecloseout bracket 138.

Securing tabs 202 may extend perpendicularly from distal edges 204 ofthe main body 192 on either end. The securing tabs 202 are configured tooverlay an outer lateral surface portion of the end panel 132, forexample, As shown, one securing tab 202 may be proximate to the bottompanel 136 while the other securing tab 202 may be above the bottom panel136. More or less securing tabs 202 than shown may be used. Eachsecuring tab 202 includes a fastener through-hole that is configured toreceive a fastener 206, such as a screw, that is used to securely fastenthe closeout bracket 138 to the pivot bin 120.

The closeout flange 190 may be an upturned portion of the second portion198. For example, the closeout flange 190 may be outwardly bent from thesecond portion 198 at a 90 degree angle. Alternatively, the angle may begreater or lesser than 90 degrees. The closeout flange 190 has a depth(extending from the second portion 198 to the strongback 144) such thata gap 210 is formed between the closeout flange 190 and an interiorsurface of the strongback 144. The gap 210 ensures that the closeoutflange 190 does not abut into a surface of the strongback 144 throughouta range of motion of the pivot bin 120. The size of the gap 210 may varyat different pivotal locations of the pivot bin 120 with respect to thestrongback 144. The maximum distance of the gap 210 throughout a rangeof motion of the pivot bin 120 may be less than 1″, in order to preventitems from falling between the pivot bin 120 and the strongback 144, butat the same time prevent the closeout flange 190 from scraping theinterior surface of the strongback 144 (so as to allow free and easymovement of the pivot bin 120 between open and closed positions). In atleast one embodiment, the gap 210 may have a maximum distance between0.2″ and 0.3″.

The closeout bracket 138 may be secured to a terminal end of the bottompanel 136, which may be an extended portion of the front panel 126. Nopanel portion may extend beyond the closeout bracket 138 between the endpanels 132 and 134. The bottom panel 136 may not extend over lateraledges 220 of the end panels 132 and 134. Indeed, the pivot bin 120 maybe devoid of a separate and distinct panel or portion of another panelthat secures over the lateral edges 220 of the end panel 132 and 134.Instead, the closeout bracket 138 extends between the end panels 132 and134. The closeout bracket 138 may extend over a short distance of thelateral edges 220. For example, closeout bracket 138 may extend overless than 2″ of the lateral edges 220. In this manner, the pivot bin 120is able to provide a baggage retaining chamber 140 having an increasedvolume and height, as there is no closing panel or wall portion thatcloses off lateral edges 220 of the end panel 132 and 134. Instead ofhaving a separate and distinct composite, honeycomb panel that wrapsaround the lateral edges 220, the closeout bracket 138 extends betweendistal, lower corner portions of the end panels 132 and 134, andprovides bracing support therebetween. The upturned closeout flange 190prevents stored overhead items from falling between the pivot bin 120and the strongback 144.

FIG. 13 illustrates a flow chart of a method of a forming a stowage binassembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Themethod begins at 300, in which multiple panels, such as compositepanels, are aligned with a closeout bracket, which may be formed of ametal, such as aluminum. The panels may not include an upper panel thatextends over any portion of a baggage retaining chamber.

The closeout bracket may provide an assembly jig or other such alignmentstructure. For example, the closeout bracket may include portions thatcradle portions of a front panel and end panels in position. Thecloseout bracket may include ridges, recesses, channels, or the likethat receive and retain portions of the panels so that they are securedin position.

After being aligned in position by the closeout bracket, the panels aresecurely attached at the closeout bracket at 302. For example, thepanels may be secured to the closeout bracket through fasteners,adhesives, and/or the like. At least one of the panels may have adifferent thickness than the others. For example, a front panel may bethicker than the end panels, as the front panel is configured todirectly support a weight of baggage within the baggage retainingchamber.

In contrast to known stowage bins, embodiments of the present disclosureeliminate a need for a bat wing design and construction. Embodiments ofthe present disclosure reduce manufacturing complexity. For example,previous stowage bins were formed through a flat bat wing shaped panel(with composite end panels and a cover cut from a single piece ofcomposite material). The single large panel is difficult to handle andmay easily be damaged (such as through tearing) at edges where it isfolded. The large panel is folded to form the top and sides of the bin,and glued to a bin bucket face. Additional edge molding pieces are thenglued into place along the top edge to cover the exposed honeycombcomposite edge. In contrast, embodiments of the present disclosureinclude the end panels that are separately cut into small,easy-to-handle pieces, which may be secured to the front panel, andattached together with the closeout bracket, which may be a sheet metalback joint. None of the portions may be folded (which may form weakenedareas) to form any of the panels.

FIG. 14 illustrates a simplified top plan view of an internal cabin 400having a plurality of stowage bin assemblies, according to an embodimentof the present disclosure. Referring to FIGS. 1-14, the internal cabin400 may be that of a Boeing 737 airplane. The internal cabin 400 mayinclude 24 stowage bin assemblies 402, each having a length of 60″, twofront stowage bin assemblies 404, each having a length of 34″, fourfirst class stowage bin assemblies 406, each having a length of 57″, twodistal stowage bin assemblies 408, each having a length of 53″, and tworear stowage bin assemblies, each having a length of 30″. Embodiments ofthe present disclosure provide stowage bin assemblies similar to thestowage bin assemblies 402. Each of the stowage bin assemblies 402 mayhave a length of 60″, and is able to accommodate six standard sizedroller bags 420 on their sides. Compared to known stowage bins, thestowage bin assemblies 402 are able to contain 2 extra standard sizedroller bags 420. Further, each stowage bin assembly 402 may have aninternal baggage retaining chamber volume of 300-450 ft3 (depending onthe size of the aircraft), which is more than 60-80 ft3 greater thanknown stowage bins. In short, the internal cabin 300 includes stowagebin assemblies 402 that have increased volume and are able to containmore bags 420 than known stowage bins. The stowage bin assemblies 402are configured to contain more bags 420 than known stowage bins, therebyallowing the internal cabin 400 to be able to accommodate substantiallymore bags 420.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide stowage bin assembliesthat are larger than known stowage bins, offer passengers and crew moreroom and flexibility for loading bags, and increase opportunity for allpassengers to be able to find a suitable overhead stowage space fortheir bags. Further, each stowage bin assembly may not include a complexbin assist mechanism.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a stowage bin assemblyhaving increased bag-containing volume due to the closeout bracket,which may be a sheet metal back joint that spans between end panels. Thecloseout bracket may include a closeout flange that prevents items frombeing inadvertently placed on top of the pivot bin, and prevents smalleritems from falling behind the pivot bin. Additionally, in the openposition, the pivot bin provides greater visibility into the baggageretaining chamber, which allows for quicker and easier inspection byflight attendants. Unlike known stowage bins, embodiments of the presentdisclosure provide a stowage bin assembly that does not need a fabriccloseout between a pivot bin and a strongback.

As described above, embodiments of the present disclosure provide astowage bin assembly that may be devoid of a fabric closeout.Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a stowage bin assemblyhaving a closeout bracket, which may be formed of metal, thateliminates, minimizes, or otherwise reduce areas where items may behidden. In short, embodiments of the present disclosure provide stowagebin assemblies that have no spaces or areas to hide items. Accordingly,embodiments of the present disclosure allow for quick and effectivesafety inspections of overhead stowage bin assemblies.

While various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower,mid, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front and the like may be used todescribe embodiments of the present disclosure, it is understood thatsuch terms are merely used with respect to the orientations shown in thedrawings. The orientations may be inverted, rotated, or otherwisechanged, such that an upper portion is a lower portion, and vice versa,horizontal becomes vertical, and the like.

As used herein, a structure, limitation, or element that is “configuredto” perform a task or operation is particularly structurally formed,constructed, or adapted in a manner corresponding to the task oroperation. For purposes of clarity and the avoidance of doubt, an objectthat is merely capable of being modified to perform the task oroperation is not “configured to” perform the task or operation as usedherein.

It is to be understood that the above description is intended to beillustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-describedembodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in combination witheach other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt aparticular situation or material to the teachings of the variousembodiments of the disclosure without departing from their scope. Whilethe dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended todefine the parameters of the various embodiments of the disclosure, theembodiments are by no means limiting and are exemplary embodiments. Manyother embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art uponreviewing the above description. The scope of the various embodiments ofthe disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to theappended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which suchclaims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and“in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respectiveterms “comprising” and “wherein.” Moreover, the terms “first,” “second,”and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended toimpose numerical requirements on their objects. Further, the limitationsof the following claims are not written in means-plus-function formatand are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. § 112(f),unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase “meansfor” followed by a statement of function void of further structure.

This written description uses examples to disclose the variousembodiments of the disclosure, including the best mode, and also toenable any person skilled in the art to practice the various embodimentsof the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems andperforming any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the variousembodiments of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may includeother examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such otherexamples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if theexamples have structural elements that do not differ from the literallanguage of the claims, or if the examples include equivalent structuralelements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of theclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A stowage bin assembly configured to bepositioned above at least a portion of one or more seats within avehicle, the stowage bin assembly comprising: a pivot bin including: aforward end panel; an aft end panel that is opposed to the forward endpanel; a front panel extending between the forward and aft end panels,wherein a baggage retaining chamber is defined between the forward endpanel, the aft end panel, and the front panel; and a closeout bracketthat stiffens the pivot bin, wherein the closeout bracket extends alongan edge of the front panel between the forward end panel and the aft endpanel.
 2. The stowage bin assembly of claim 1, further comprising astrongback, wherein the pivot bin is pivotally secured to thestrongback, and wherein the pivot bin is configured to be pivotedbetween open and closed positions.
 3. The stowage bin assembly of claim1, wherein the stowage bin assembly is devoid of an upper panel.
 4. Thestowage bin assembly of claim 1, wherein the closeout bracket is securedto a bottom end of the front panel.
 5. The stowage bin assembly of claim4, wherein no portion of any panel extends past the closeout bracketbetween the forward and aft end panel.
 6. The stowage bin assembly ofclaim 1, wherein each of the forward end panel, the aft end panel, andthe front panel are formed of composite honeycomb sandwich panels, andwherein the closeout bracket is formed from a unitary piece of metal. 7.The stowage bin assembly of claim 1, wherein the baggage retainingchamber is configured to support standard sized roller bags in avertically-oriented position in open and closed positions, wherein aninterior surface of the front panel is configured to support sides ofthe standard sized roller bags in the open and closed positions.
 8. Thestowage bin assembly of claim 1, wherein the closeout bracket comprisesa closeout flange that is configured to be spaced apart from astrongback through an entire range of motion of the pivot bin withrespect to the strongback.
 9. The stowage bin assembly of claim 8,wherein the closeout flange comprises an upturned edge of a longitudinalmain body.
 10. The stowage bin assembly of claim 8, wherein the closeoutbracket comprises a main body having a first portion connected to asecond portion through an intermediate curved portion, wherein the mainbody is configured to cradle lower curved corner portions of the forwardand aft end panels.
 11. The stowage bin assembly of claim 10, whereinthe closeout bracket further comprises one or more securing tabsextending perpendicularly from one or both of the first and secondportions, wherein each of the one or more securing tabs comprises athrough-hole configured to receive a fastener that secures the closeoutbracket to one or more of the front panel, the forward end panel, or theaft end panel.
 12. A method of forming a pivot bin of a stowage binassembly that is configured to be positioned above at least a portion ofone or more seats within a vehicle, the method comprising: forming aforward end panel, an aft end panel, and a front panel; aligning theforward end panel, the aft end panel, and the front panel with respectto a closeout bracket; and attaching the closeout bracket along an edgeof the front panel between the forward end panel and the aft end panel.13. The method of claim 12, wherein the aligning operation comprisesusing the closeout bracket as an assembly jig for the forward end panel,the aft end panel, and the front panel.
 14. The method of claim 12,wherein the attaching operation comprises one or both of adhesivelysecuring the forward end panel, the aft end panel, and the front panelto the closeout bracket or using one or more fasteners to secure theforward end panel, the aft end panel, and the front panel to thecloseout bracket.
 15. The method of claim 12, further comprisingupturning an edge of the closeout bracket to form a closeout flange. 16.The method of claim 12, further comprising refraining from securing anupper panel to any of the forward end panel, the aft end panel, and thefront panel.
 17. The method of claim 12, further comprising refrainingfrom folding any panel portions to form any of the forward end panel,the aft end panel, and the front panel.
 18. The method of claim 12,wherein the forming operation comprises forming the front panel with adifferent thickness than the forward and aft end panels.
 19. A stowagebin assembly configured to be positioned above at least a portion of oneor more seats within a vehicle, the stowage bin assembly comprising: apivot bin including a closeout bracket that stiffens the pivot bin,wherein the closeout bracket extends along an edge of a front panelbetween a forward end panel and an aft end panel.
 20. The stowage binassembly of claim 19, wherein a baggage retaining chamber is definedbetween the forward end panel, the aft end panel, and the front panel,wherein the baggage retaining chamber is configured to support standardsized roller bags in a vertically-oriented position in open and closedpositions, wherein an interior surface of the front panel is configuredto support sides of the standard sized roller bags in the open andclosed positions.